TTC Flame Red vs. TTC Yunhai
An in-depth look at the TTC Flame Red and the TTC Yunhai switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboards, the choice of switch can greatly influence your typing experience, and two popular options to consider are the TTC Flame Red and the TTC Yunhai, both linear switches but with distinct characteristics. The Flame Red is celebrated not just for its performance but also its striking visual appeal, boasting a dazzling light diffuser that enhances any backlit RGB setup. It provides a weighty smoothness coupled with a mildly clacky sound profile, making it an excellent choice for those who enjoy a tactile, responsive feel while typing. In contrast, the Yunhai switches introduce a broader acoustic experience with their deep, rounded sound profile, paired with an incredibly light actuation force, making them ideal for users who favor a gentler, more effortless typing sensation. While both switches shine in their own ways, your ultimate choice may depend on whether you prioritize visual aesthetics and sound profile or a soft touch and unique auditory experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
42g
Bottom-out force
54g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POK
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
24.5mm long spring
Spring
23mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the TTC Flame Red and the TTC Yunhai, both switches utilize nylon for their top and bottom housings. This commonality in material is significant, as it allows both switches to share a similar sound profile characterized by a deeper and fuller acoustic experience. The nylon used in both switches is noted for its softer plastic composition, which contributes to sound absorption. Consequently, when typing on either switch, users can expect a duller and rounder sound, as the nylon's inherent properties work to moderate the sharpness typically associated with harder plastics. The sound profile created by the nylon housing plays a crucial role in shaping the user's tactile experience.
Furthermore, since both the Flame Red and Yunhai switches are constructed with nylon top and bottom housings, the overall performance in terms of sound and feel will be relatively similar. The impact of the bottom housing is especially important for users who value the feel of the bottom-out sound. With both switches utilizing nylon, there would be minimal differences in how each switch responds when pressed down. Users can appreciate an engaging typing experience, as the nylon bottom housing absorbs sound on bottom-out while also providing a satisfying tactile response. The similarities in material choices mean that users will likely achieve comparable results in terms of feel when engaging with either of these switches.
While the TTC Flame Red and TTC Yunhai share identical housing materials, the nuances in design, such as switch actuation points and tactile feedback, may lead to a different subjective experience when typing. Although the nylon contributes to their similar sound profiles, the overall characteristics of each switch could likely differ based on their internal mechanisms and specifications. Nevertheless, for those prioritizing the unique acoustic properties of nylon, both switches present a compelling option, ensuring consistent auditory and tactile feedback that can enhance the typing experience across different applications.
Weight
The TTC Flame Red and TTC Yunhai linear switches present interesting distinctions in their actuation and bottom out forces, appealing to different typing preferences. The Flame Red features an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 54 grams, categorizing it as medium-light. In contrast, the Yunhai offers a lighter experience with an actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, marking it as light. This difference in weight means that the Yunhai switch may be more comfortable for users who engage in extended typing sessions, as the lighter actuation force can reduce fatigue. On the other hand, the Flame Red’s heavier forces offer a more substantial typing feel, which might be preferred by those who enjoy a firmer feedback. Ultimately, if a user seeks a lighter switch for ease of use, the Yunhai would be the appropriate choice, while those desiring a firmer touch may gravitate towards the Flame Red.
Travel distance
The TTC Flame Red linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the TTC Yunhai linear switch features a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. This difference indicates that the Flame Red switch offers a more traditional and deeper key press, which some users may find more satisfying and steady. In contrast, the Yunhai's shorter travel distance may lend itself to quicker response times, which is often preferred by gamers seeking rapid actuation. Ultimately, those who enjoy a more pronounced key press might opt for the Flame Red switch, whereas users looking for a snappier feel may gravitate towards the Yunhai. Thus, the Flame Red is the longer option, while the Yunhai is the shorter switch.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Flame Red has an MSRP of $7.29 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Flame Red for $4.38.
The TTC Yunhai has an MSRP of $7.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Yunhai for $5.99.
Here at Milktooth, we offer the best prices on switches (on average, 27% lower the competition). In addition, we offer free shipping on orders over $49.00. We also offer free returns and exchanges, so you can shop with guaranteed satisfaction.
That said, while price is an important piece of the puzzle, our opinion is that you should ultimately pick the option that most suits your unique preferences since you’ll be using these switches for years to come. In other words, finding something perfect for you is, in our view, the most important criteria.
Typing experience
The TTC Flame Red switch exhibits a moderately neutral sound profile that caters well to a variety of environments, making it suitable for both home and office use. This balanced audio characteristic ensures that it is not overly distracting, allowing for focused typing sessions while still providing a pleasant auditory feedback with each keystroke. On the other hand, the TTC Yunhai's sound profile is distinguished by a deep, rounded quality, which adds a unique richness that can be especially enjoyable for users who appreciate a more substantial acoustic experience. This distinct sound may resonate well with typists who prefer a fuller, more immersive auditory feedback while typing.
In terms of feel, the Flame Red switch stands out for its mild yet polished characteristics. This gentle typing experience strikes a balance that is approachable for most users, making it suitable for both newcomers and seasoned typists alike. The polished finish enhances the smoothness of every key press, contributing to a refined and enjoyable typing experience with reduced friction. In contrast, the specifics of the Yunhai's feel are not detailed; however, its incredibly light actuation force implies an effortless typing experience that may appeal to those who prefer minimal resistance when keying in commands.
Overall, both the TTC Flame Red and Yunhai linear switches offer unique sensory experiences in terms of sound and feel. While the Flame Red is characterized by a neutral sound and a mild, polished feel, the Yunhai provides a deep, rounded auditory experience complemented by an exceptionally light actuation force. Depending on personal preference, users seeking a balance of crispness and smoothness might gravitate toward the Flame Red, while those looking for a lighter touch may find the Yunhai particularly inviting. Ultimately, either switch can be a suitable choice for users wanting to elevate their typing experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the TTC Flame Red and the TTC Yunhai linear switches ultimately hinges on your personal preferences and typing style. If you enjoy a moderate bottom-out force coupled with a smooth and polished feel, the Flame Red switches would be your ideal choice. Their 54-gram actuation force is slightly weightier, providing a sense of substance while typing, which can lend itself well to both gaming and productivity tasks. Additionally, the Flame Reds shine visually, boasting dazzling light diffusers that enhance any RGB lighting setup, making them particularly appealing for aesthetic-minded users. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter keystroke with an effortless typing experience, the TTC Yunhai, with its 50-gram actuation force, is well-suited for those who seek a more gentle touch. Its deep, rounded sound profile offers a unique auditory experience, making it an excellent fit for long typing sessions or for those who value a soft touch. Ultimately, consider whether you prioritize a visual flair and a slightly bolder feel or a more delicate typing experience as you select your switch.
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